The U.S. Coast Guard successfully seized a Venezuelan oil tanker in a tactical operation today, marking the second such seizure in just 10 days targeting illicit shipments funding Nicolás Maduro’s regime and associated narco-terrorism networks.

Declassified footage shows a Maritime Special Reaction Team boarding the Panama-flagged M/T Centuries in international waters off Venezuela’s coast. The video, captured with night-vision equipment, illustrates a coordinated fast-rope insertion from helicopters and Navy support, resulting in the detention of the vessel’s crew without resistance.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the operation, noting its precision and professionalism. The raid echoes historical U.S. maritime enforcement actions, including President Jefferson’s Barbary pirate seizures, demonstrating continued American commitment to securing international waters and enforcing sanctions against regimes that exploit oil revenues for criminal activity.

The Centuries operation follows the earlier seizure of the tanker Skipper, further signaling that the United States will aggressively target vessels attempting to bypass sanctions or fund illegal operations. Officials emphasized that the missions are part of broader national security efforts to disrupt illicit financial networks supporting narco-terrorism and destabilizing the region.

The footage provides a rare inside look at U.S. tactical maritime operations, highlighting both the capabilities of Coast Guard Special Reaction Teams and the coordination with the Navy to enforce international law while minimizing risks to crew and personnel.